The Andrews Labor Government is delivering new world-class bike trails in regional Victoria with the opening of the La Larr Ba Guawa Park in Harcourt – just in time for the Labour Day long weekend.

Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford joined Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards today to open the park to mountain bike riders.

The Park is two kilometres east of Harcourt and adjoins the Mount Alexander Regional Park. It includes 34 kilometres of trails that take advantage of the site’s stunning views and granite landscapes. It caters to riders from beginners to advanced, with technical features that will have riders returning again and again.

As well as a variety of trails, the well-signposted park also includes toilets and a meeting shelter. Mountain bike riders will park in Harcourt and access the Park via a newly constructed off-road path.

The project is expected to increase the number of visitors to the precinct to 25,000 visitors per year in 2018. Within the five years, the precinct is expected to attract 100,000 visitors a year and create 57 jobs in the visitor economy.

Annual visitor spending is expected to reach $2.4 million in 2018 and increase to $9.8 million after five years. The project is also projected to spark private sector investment in bike related services and the hospitality sector.

The Labor Government invested almost $2.5 million towards the project.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford

“La Larr Ba Gauwa Park will attract more people to explore the region and lead to the creation of 57 jobs within five years, while generating $9.8 million in visitor spending.” 

“Right across the state, we’re investing in initiatives that make regional Victoria an even better place to live, work and visit.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio MP

“Mountain bike riders have a new world-class trail network to explore in our incredible parks.”

“This is a result of our Government working with the local community to build something that everyone can be proud of – while also improving the site’s environmental values.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“This project will help to put Harcourt and Central Victoria on the map as a new mountain bike destination of choice and build on the popularity of the Goldfields Track.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan

“This began as an idea from the local community and with hard work and partnerships, we’ve been able to build a world class facility.”